A drama-free episode (mostly) full of interesting, discussable garments at the end, with one or two really stunning ones.

Darlings, how in the hell do we recap THAT? We’re so out of practice! For the last several seasons, it’s been all about drama, characters, and dead family members! A Project Runway with the focus on the clothes? Pfft. It’ll never work!

There was a little bit of drama with Kara and her daily meltdown occurring on schedule, but she pretty much pulled it together without screaming at her fellow designers and stomping out of the workroom in a rage.

Michael offered up a small plate of drama because he’s apparently under the impression that he invented red. But he course-corrected instead of locking himself in the bathroom and crying for half a day. Honestly, what are we supposed to do with these people if they don’t accuse each other of cheating every 3 minutes?

Because the gays keep asking for pics. There you go, gays.

So congratulations, Austin!

Lorenzo was singing this dress’s praises from the second it walked out. Tom had to be convinced, since he partially agreed with Mila that there was something a little basic about the design.

In addition, Tom thinks the tulle looks unresolved, as they say. Like it was shoved in place at the last second.

But the overall effect is quite stunning and chic, in addition to being very tasteful. We think several of the designers thought a dress for the opera is the same thing as a red carpet dress but it’s not. Austin understood the venue and the potential clientele very well. The goal is to make the wearer beautiful and well-appointed, but it’s not necessarily to turn every head in the room by wearing something attention-seeking. Granted, it’s head-to-toe gold lame and that’s not exactly subtle, but he rendered it all in a very chic but understated way.

And it was cute how thrilled he was. It would have been bad for him had he not aced it, since he’s clearly the “gown for the opera” designer among the group.

And it’s Schmauf Wiedersehen to Sweet Pea.

Could there be any question? Really? We think, away from the show, Sweet Pea is a talented designer.

But we also think no designer in the history of the show has gotten as many second chances as she has – especially when she has always consistently scored low, if not in the bottom. It looks to us like reality TV is not the best showcase for her talents, so we’re puzzled as to why she keeps returning to it, only to be kicked off again.

We’re sorry, but just about everything here was hideous. The judges tried to claim it was more suitable for some sort of day event, but we detected a whiff of crack when they said that. This top is uneven, badly executed, unattractive, and looks like the top to a very old bathing suit.

We can’t even with that fabric choice. Ugly as sin. Like poly blend sheets from the seventies.

And to top it off, the shape was such an odd choice. The silhouette was more akin to a Korean hanbok, which could have been interesting if it had been a conscious choice and if it was appropriate for the challenge. She just seemed to stumble onto this shape and didn’t know what to do with it.

She seems very nice, and we wish her well, but like Austin’s win, sending her home was absolutely the right choice. Time to go, honey. You’ve had enough shots at it.

Austin’s dress definitely looked better “in person” than in the stills. It has a great art deco quality and was gasp-worthy when the model appeared. Michael’s dress was also wow-worthy in a more showy way.

Even many of the safe group would have been automatic winners in other seasons. What a breath of fresh air this show is after the recent PR pollution.

Anonymous

Yes, I really liked the art deco feel to it and the pictures don’t really do it justice. Glad he won.

Anonymous

I liked the shape of Sweet Pea’s effort, but the floral fabric was Just So Wrong.

Now, I could die happy if they’d just add that extra 30 minutes (what is its, 12.5 minutes of program time, after ads?) back in and use it to show what the designers are doing with their work. Heck, question them about their actual design decisions, and air that! A concept!

MilaXX

I thought Sweatpea’s dress looked very juniors.
I get what she was aiming for, but she really missed the mark.

i have to admit, i really miss the 90 minute format with the allstars season. you knew right away who was safe, because they were the contestants the joanna coles didn’t talk to during her visit. and i would have like to have heard more about gordana’s and kenley’s dresses-they were some of my favorites.

Anonymous

On the one hand, I agree with you–I would like more time for the other designers’ efforts in the workroom.

OTOH, I don’t trust B-M to continue giving real content instead of bullshit drama. If they had another 20 minutes of time to fill, I fear they would give us more of Kara and Michael freaking out over nothing. (Or Kenley being a bitch–but she has gone two episodes without apparently being one, and indeed had some kind words for fellow designers, so I’m holding hope that she’s grown up since her season.)

Anonymous

I think Kenley is really doing the show as a means of image rehab. She left so many people with such disdain for her by the end of her season and then the cat-tossing incident occurred and got all the animal lovers hating her too. Going back on the show and behaving like an adult might hopefully soften people’s feelings about her and help her career. Just my opinion…

Anonymous

I know! I liked Gordana’s dress a lot and Kenleys’ took my breath away for a moment (loved the bodice not sure about the foo-foo-ness of the rest.) And Mondo’s! Honestly, it felt strange to find myself gasping at the beauty of one garment after another. It’s so refreshing to know they’re all very good (at least the one’s that are remaining – Sweet Pea had to go.)

Oh, and I wasn’t such a big fan of Michael’s. It just seemed very Cher at the Oscars with all the feathers and fluff and dazzle at the top, but it did fit beautifully and that back strap was sexy as hell.

For me it’s still a race between Mondo and Rami, but there’s going to be so much pretty everywhere along the way that I’m happy.

Anonymous

I thought Mondo’s was so very chic and gorgeous. I was hoping he would be in the top.

Lisa

I was thrilled that Austin won, but I was shocked that Mondo wasn’t in the top. That dress was gorgeous! I thought his should have been in place of Anthony’s (which was pretty but not as pretty as Mondo’s).

Anonymous

Maybe, but so, so wrong for the opera. You’d crush the pouf in the back sitting for hours and if you didn’t have your own box for that train, you’d have to drape it over your date and the other couple you came with.

Anonymous

Exactly – I loved Mondo’s dress as well, but not for the Opera. I think a number of designers stumbled on that fact. I saw a lot of pretty that just wouldn’t be worn to the Metropolitan.

Austin won on two fronts – with a gorgeous dress that also perfectly suited the desired client.

When the models hit the runway, I looked at the clock and I couldn’t believe it was only 9:30! I don’t mind the shorter format, though, because those extra 30 minutes were only used for added drama; the producers never used it to showcase how the clothing was made. And those extra added comments from the contestants peanut gallery during the runway shows always annoyed the crap out of me so I don’t miss them either. But yeah, if they showed more of the contestants working, I’d be down with that.

Anonymous

I always say, if it makes the model look fat/pregnant, that’s not a good sign. The same goes for a lot of the other dresses in the “middle of the pack” that all cried out “MooMoo” to me…

I really am curious what was going on in Sweet P’s head when she picked that fabric. I don’t ask this obnoxiously (I think she seems REALLY sweet and agree with TLo on PR just not being suited for her skills), but does she realize that operas are typically performed in the evening, and for adults?

I agree. It’s like some of the designers thought the challenge was to make maternity opera wear.

Anonymous

My husband said the exact same thing about the waistlines. He asked if it was a pregnancy challenge.

vix eljay

I can’t believe the judges didn’t comment on the fact that they had two high-waisted/near-babydoll shapes in a row. It had me wondering if Kara and Sweet P had totally misjudged their models’ torso length. Neither dress was flattering in the least.

Anonymous

I’m somewhat in shock – two episodes in and I haven’t had issues with either the winner or the auffer. Gives me hope for this season of all stars although I will still confess to a huge amount of cynicism with Project Runway overall, based on the pathetic record of the past few seasons.

srq

Anonymous

Makes you wonder if Bunim-Murray were under pressure with this season to capture an oldschool vibe or that the results are due to Heidi, Nina and Michael’s absence. Or that the producers were too busy with season 9 to manipulate the results.

Either way it is shaming the original panel.

Anonymous

Yes! The judging panel does seem to be central to the more satisfying outcomes without the ludicrous analogies &insults. I have to wonder as well if commentary

I’d like to think that this bodes well for season 9 but will withhold judgment and just enjoy All Stars while it stays focused on creating fashion and avoiding silly drama. As others have mentioned would really be enjoying this much more if we had that extra half hour to get more depth as to what’s going on with the creation and mentoring, as well as getting more of a look at all of the final creations.

srq

Anonymous

Trying to finish sentence above as disqus is giving me fits… I have to wonder if BM is contending with some of the critical commentary regarding the state of recent PR seasons in wider media. Thinking of Wolcott’s blog on the VAnity Fair site quoting TLo as being evidence of viewer dissatisfaction. Season 9 might be telling….

(or continuing painful)

srq

Anonymous

Here’s hoping, yah?

I suspect some of it may also be that the All Stars have been to this dance before. They’ve had a chance to see how they came off in on their previous season, and adjust their behavior accordingly.

Also, this lot are indeed more talented than the folks on season 8, who generally weren’t up to the challenge of the time constraints, and were overall less creative than previous groups.

The best thing about a season of veterans is that when faced with the alternate materials challenge, there wasn’t any whining about “I can’t make clothes with garbage!”

Anonymous

Can you post a link to the blog? I can’t find it! It’s funny- I subscribe to VF but never read the blogs- there is a mad amount of Wolcott on PR I have missed!

If you scroll down a bit, it’s his blog entry for January 6th. TLo posted it on facebook and it’s impressive because Wolcott uses a sizeable paragraph from our boys’ post on PR. Making the bitter kittens proud!

“The judging panel does seem to be central to the more satisfying outcomes without the ludicrous analogies &insults.”

Yes! I was commenting to my husband that it’s a relief to hear commentary on dress construction and appearance, rather than the styling or a belief that the dress isn’t ‘editorial’, whatever that means. I also appreciate the fact that the judges seem to be able to find at least one redeeming feature for each of the low-scoring garments, making their judgement seem more of a constructive critique and less of a”‘slam the designer”-fest.

I’m reserving my final judgement on this all-stars, though, in case BM get up to their old tricks. We know there are a lot of strong personalities in the room, so I imagine that there is potential for drama, as evidenced by last week’s montage of moments from the season, shown, I suspect, out of context. There was a hint of the drama when they showed Austin on the runway saying “It’s Scarlett” and then Isaac supposedly replying “Oh, did I say Starlet?” in a snide tone. I suspect it was edited to make it seem like something it wasn’t, but you never know…

vix eljay

Frankly, it’s been amazing nobody has bitched Kenley out yet. I’ve noticed that she’s the one who’s always barking orders at them. TIME TO GO TO THE RUNWAY GUYS! TIME TO GO TO MOOD! TIME TO GO HOME GUYS!

I wouldn’t mind Heidi in place of Schmeidi, just to have one crazy on the judging panel. Schmeidi is so wooden and boring. Heidi may even tone herself down or feel shameful after a couple of episodes of being around Isaac and Georgina’s thoughtful critiques.

I feel like the judges are afraid to be mean about boring designs. They were a little mean about April’s mess, but not nearly mean enough about this monstrosity and Kara’s dress (which looked exactly like my grandmother’s sofa, crappy bow and all.)

Otherwise it is so nice to enjoy some good clothes making. I thought Mondo should have been up there I LOOOVED his dress.

I thought Kara Janx’s dress was going for an Elie Saab look, which can be beautiful; and though I actually quite liked her dress, I was reminded of something very different from a granny sofa: it looked to me very junior, very starlet on the red carpet at the Kids’ Choice Awards.

Anonymous

Yes I really loved the regal and refined quality of Austin. The lame gave it the pop and attention and it was anchored by the black tule. I really liked Michael’s but thought this one met the challenge better

Yes no surprise for Sweet P. April’s was a train wreck but that was due to over-ambition and Kara was on the right track despite eveningwear not being her thing. I was shocked Rami had such a weak entry.

I really wished Sweet P had gone home last week as I think Elisa could have done something amazing and hand-sewn for this challenge.

Speaking of Elisa, I was rather intrigued by the interview posted on the Lifetime site. It shows she’s a lot more self-aware and not quite as hippie-loopy as some people might think.

Anonymous

I didn’t really like the tulle. While I liked Austin’s dress, I also thought it was kind of basic. I also don’t really like full on metallic dresses. Reminds me too much of the late 80s and those giant silver and gold purses everyone carried and those gold flats everyone wore, then the early 90s when senior citizens discovered them and wore them to death.

I thought Michael should have won.

OMG did I say that?

I’m surprised I’ve kind of jumped on the Michael bandwagon and didn’t really like the dudes designs until the end of his season, when I think if there was a “most improved designer” award, he should have gotten that.

Anonymous

Michael did the McQueen dress I am SO sick of seeing! Yes, it was pretty and well-done but not original in the least.

Anonymous

Funny. I thought that about Kenley’s dress. Not Michael’s. 🙂

vix eljay

That’s interesting because I thought Kenley’s had a bit of a Leanne feel to it (color and pattern notwithstanding).

Anonymous

I remember when Senior Citizen ladies discovered gold lame’ slippers, including ones with turned up toes on the end, like an elf (they were called Peter Pan slippers) in the 1960’s and 70’s. I hope hope hope these things don’t return again.

Anonymous

If they do return, it will bring back to me SO many memories of older relatives that I might even enjoy the fad for a few weeks.

“I didn’t really like the tulle. While I liked Austin’s dress, I also
thought it was kind of basic. I also don’t really like full on metallic
dresses. Reminds me too much of the late 80s and those giant silver and
gold purses everyone carried and those gold flats everyone wore, then
the early 90s when senior citizens discovered them and wore them to
death.”

Well, nothing is new under the sun – especially in fashion. But Austin wasn’t channeling the 80’s at all. Nor was he channeling the 60’s. He was channeling Jean Harlow and the 30’s, down to the styling of the model’s hair -albeit an updated version. Austin tends to reference old Hollywood and give it a twist of some kind to make it modern. Google Jean Harlow and you can find her in dresses with very similar necklines.

Anonymous

I said the gold reminded me of the 80s metallic fabrics, and that I have bad memories of them. I didn’t say he was channeling the 80s at all.

I actually preferred Michael’s dress to Austin’s, but I tend to gravitate towards sparkle, and the collar of Michael’s dress was stunning. Sweet P’s dress reminded me of those dirndl skirts we wore in the early ’70’s…even the fabric was the same.

Out of the top 3, there was no other choice but Austin. Love the lame and the tulle. Hated the cat-ear cups, but y’know, if he had a little more time, the minor stuff would have been tweaked and perfect.

With that material, I would have preferred that Sweet P went totally full-throttle Loretta Lynn instead of stopping with the skirt. Go out with a bang in a flammable formal prairie gown—Grand Ol’ Opry instead of Metropolitan Opera, but whatever. Sweet P’s ’60s home ec project scores a D.

Sweet Pea’s gown reminded me of a bridesmaid dress my mom wore circa 1970, though the flower print was in green and gold, naturally. They all wore wigs too… I have to dig up that photo. (I was four and wearing a very pink frilly thing and absolutely delighted to be there.)

Marie Dees

I was going to say – bridesmaid dress from the 70s and I thought “hmm, wonder if anyone else thought the same thing.” Oh, Sweet Pea, I love you but that dress was 70s beach wedding. Not opera night.

Austin claimed that “In my season they called me The King of Couture.” I don’t remember that AT ALL. Whose memory is faulty, mine or his?

Anonymous

I had the same reaction. Granted, I only saw S1 perhaps twice, but I went “say what?”

Anonymous

I mentioned that last night in the Lounge. I don’t recall ever having heard that phrase used to describe him in Season One. So I Googled it–and came up with John Galliano. No mention of Austin that I could find (without paging through millions of references).

However, this morning, countless clueless boob-bloggers are writing this: “Austin ‘King of Couture’ Scarlett.” So even though I don’t believe anyone ever called him that in Season One, now almost everyone is. Thanks, TLo, for not falling for the PR shtick!

I guess it’s somewhat analogous to Michael Jackson’s demand to be called The King of Pop.

Anonymous

I never heard it, but maybe it wasn’t on air.

Lori

Agree. To me it sounds like something said in the apartment, maybe even sarcastically.

Call me Bee

Nope–never. I’ve watched S1 probably a half dozen times, and never have I heard those words from either fellow designer or judge. Austin did have a rep for making girlie, flowing, exagerated evening looks for any of the challenges, but that’s it.

We see things differently. I do not see Michael casting himself as some kinda ‘underdog’. He’s just an insecure dude who believes in his work but is always second guessing himself. A worry wart. That was obvious since his season. And there’s nothing wrong with him (or any designer) praising or ‘over praising’ their fellow’s work. If they see fit to liking it and giving it praise, what’s the problem with that?

Yeah. I know I kinda feel the same way — I know my work is good, but I always wonder how good it really is when viewed through other people’s eyes.

Logo Girl

I think he might be over-compensating for his season: it seems the back story of people being dismissive of Michael on Season 8 was that many found him arrogant and conceited off-camera, especially April. I think he is trying to be more humble towards her this time.

BuffaloBarbara

I’m so excited about this show! It’s great to see great garments, one right after another. And even in the confessionals, the talk seems to be about what they’re doing in the work room instead of how they feel about the untimely death of their third cousins, once removed, from This Week’s Hot Disease. I assume they’re dragged off to the confessional in the middle of the action, and I can’t believe it never occurred to me that it seems odd when people aren’t talking clothes when they’re on such a tight timeline and in the middle of making them. With this gang, I almost get the impression that when they do say something (like Mondo’s bit about Austin’s being “basic”), it’s because they’re genre-savvy, and know that they can’t get back to work until they’ve said something deemed TV-worthy, so fine, whatever, it’s basic, now if you don’t mind, I’m in the middle of draping something and you’re wasting my time.

There was no contest for the bottom. That fabric made me think of a swimsuit my grandmother wore in the ’70s, but you have the better call on sheets from the same era. Blech.

And Austin’s was lovely. I’m not sure there’d have been a good way to “resolve” that tulle (especially on that timeline–to my shock, I was totally with Michael C in his comment that “We’re not calling it couture, we’re calling it really hopped up prom dresses” because the time for “couture” is crazy). What it does is soften that lamé and create subtlety where it might not naturally exist. And the difference between the opera and the red carpet is, I think, what won it for him.

I have never appreciated a designer comment so much as when Micheal said that about couture — that’s a weird issue of mine. I hate the way they appropriate the term ‘couture’ since there’s an actual legal definition of it! I don’t know why this bugs me — I’m not even French, so I don’t know why I care what their government has to say about it, but it just seems so rude…

I loved Anthony’s too, and it was my second favorite…if there was less shown of “the girls.” Leave something to the imagination. I don’t care how great your rack is, if you wore this there would be no way anyone would look at anything else.

Anonymous

You including the picture of Rami, reminds me. I noticed the tone of the whole episode was more about the challenge and the contestants comments in the confessional focused about the process and each’s take was more constructive. I was also surprised how much attention Rami and Giordana got considering they were in the middle. It seems like since there is so much talent going around, BM seemed to be choosing to focus on that. Or perhaps the All-Stars know enough not to play that game this time around

Oh, come on – this is Sweet P’s third attempt at Project Runway! In Season 4, she stayed in for 11 challenges and didn’t win a single one; she then came third in the one-off All Star special for season 6, and came in the bottom three for both of these episodes. She’s been in 14 challenges, been in the bottom for 8 of them, and not won a single one, which must be a record. I get that people are annoyed that Anya won overall, but Sweet P can’t even win a challenge no matter how many second chances they give her.

My point was really that Anya wouldn’t have WON any challenges had they not given her a second shot, as in more money, more time, etc. But having won, she won’t be back for any future All-Stars, I shouldn’t think.

I’m not a SweetPea fan, but she’s not the only person who has gotten do-overs either. 😉

Anonymous

And at least hers are in different shows. I bet they cast her as fodder anyway- someone viewers like but who can go early without a blip

I was expecting more from Austin in the way he described his concept in the workroom where he spoke of the black tulle as though it would be voluminous. More layers would’ve read more “couture” IMHO.

Kristen Sallee

I liked Gordana’s and Mondo’s dresses better than Anthony’s, personally… but I really can’t say that the judges’ choices for top or bottom were wrong. Amazing!

Cathy S

I felt the same way. Gordana’s was very interesting and beautiful. I think it came right after Kenley said her dress was fashion forward, which I thought applied to Gordana’s more than hers. Mondo’s dress made my jaw drop but I think it was the “opera” part of the challenge that put it in the middle. It was more a fabulous red carpet awards dress than an opera dress. I loved it.

I thought it was a tough call between Michael and Austin, but I think tasteful beat out sexy for the opera.

Cathy S

I felt the same way. Gordana’s was very interesting and beautiful. I think it came right after Kenley said her dress was fashion forward, which I thought applied to Gordana’s more than hers. Mondo’s dress made my jaw drop but I think it was the “opera” part of the challenge that put it in the middle. It was more a fabulous red carpet awards dress than an opera dress. I loved it.

I thought it was a tough call between Michael and Austin, but I think tasteful beat out sexy for the opera.

Anonymous

I would love to see what Elisa would have done for this challenge. She certainly has the execution skills to turn out something fabulous.

Anonymous

I would have loved to see what Wretchen or Anya would have done

Terence Ng

Ugh, Rami is sooo hot. Seriously, I would jump that in a second. That’s all I can contribute.

From my point of view it’s too bad he’s playing for the other team. Maybe he can, I don’t know, donate some sperm or something?

Anonymous

Austin’s was so old Hollywood glamor while still being modern. I think the designers on the judging panel know hard of a balance that is to strike. I did think the hem was wonky in front, but given the time constraints, I can see them overlooking that.

Oh Sweet Pea, you were never long for this show. I knew you or Elisa would be the first to go, with the other right on her heels. You put out two awful offerings twice in a row. Glad this group of judges isn’t giving you so many second chances. This is a tough crop of designers. Run with the big dogs or stay on the porch honey.

Since I didn’t see the show itself, I didn’t know what to expect. So there was a very loud GASP when I scrolled to Sweet P’s. Wow. That is…. I don’t even know.

But it wasn’t just pictures, anyone can plop some pictures online and call something ugly. TLo, you go the extra mile. The way you described Austin and his look, and the potential client, etc… it was the perfect set-up for the patio furniture slipcover disaster that followed.

I didn’t like Anthony’s at all, while I thought Gordana got kind of shafted by not getting any recognition. I did think, seeing hers come down the runway, that it was too “sexy” or maybe “red carpet” for this challenge.

Anonymous

“Tlo said: Time to go, honey. You’ve had enough shots at it.”

Actually too many shots at it. I was glad she went – it should have been last week — but having that Schmeidi woman say, ‘no one does color like you do’ was absolute BULL (unless it was meant in a derogatory way). And this pretense that she is anything more than a basic home sewer is the same. My guess is she keeps coming back because they need to fill out the numbers and the others are busy while she’s not.

–GothamTomato

Anonymous

I thought that Schmeidi’s comment about SweetP and color was perhaps meant to soften her schmauf’ing, but I haven’t seen enough of Schmeidi to gauge if she’s serious or blowing smoke.

It was definitely SweetP’s time to go-nothing against her, but she was one of the lesser lights of this group.

Anonymous

Have SweetPea or Kara ever BEEN to the opera?

Anonymous

As has been discussed in TLounge, *which* opera company in *what* city and season makes such a difference. Trust me, opening night at my city’s company – artistically considered respectable but I get the impression we’re a ‘seasoning’ company where the better performers are merely stopping on their way up the ladder – in a town known for its casual public attire, is not going to look like opening night at the Met, or even in Houston.

(Edited for grammar.)

Anonymous

You are right of course, but I think of “night at the opera” in this context as code for a beautiful formal gown without being too revealing or too overtly sexy.

Yeah, we used to live in Madison, WI, and things like the ballet were far less formal than they would be in Chicago.

Anonymous

I found Sweet P’s dress stunning. But not in a good way. I just can’t imagine what she was thinking with her fabric choices. Had I only seen the still shots, I would think the challenge was to make a dress out of bedsheets from 1972.

I’m thrilled with Austin’s win! Michael was a close second, but I’m so glad Austin redeemed himself from the disaster of last week. This dress was perfectly understated but glam at the same time.

I agree with Tom about the tulle. It looks like there should be more, but if there was, then would it be too much? It just looks a little stuck on. I did love the feeling of this dress. I watched a lot of the “Thin Man” movies over Christmas, and this dress is like something Myrna Loy would have worn. I liked Michael’s dress, but it wasn’t opera. And that remark about Kim Kardasian was too spot on.

I’m glad they sent Sweet P home instead of April, but I hope April gets her game on soon.

Call me Bee

Yes–a 30s-40s glamour dress. Exaaaaaatly!

Anonymous

Oh! This would have been a good challenge for Casanova! I miss that cray-cray cutie and his “ploosh poppies.”

Call me Bee

Because of Casanova, I call stuffed animals “ploosh poopies” all the time, and my little grandson is picking up on it now. That term will live in infamy!

Anonymous

I liked Austin’s gown. I haven’t seen it a hundred times, and his brand of sophistication involves a bit of restraint, which is very welcome.

Sweet Pea, oh boy. It is difficult to find a beautiful print, and to find one sophisticated enough for evening is rare. This wasn’t it. Coupled with a unimaginative silhouette and iffy execution, she was the obvious auf.

Anonymous

The designs that came down the runway this week–and last week for that matter–just serve to illustrate how laughably awful the talent has been in the past few seasons, especially the last one. I loved Austin’s design and really loved Michael’s as well.

I am also kind of loving Joanna as a mentor. She is all about the tough love. No, scratch that, not even love, just tough, respectful, thoughtful, constructive criticism. She serves precisely the role that she should. Her bitch-tastic turn as a judge last season must have been an anomaly.

Anonymous

Joanna was on fire two (?) seasons ago when she told Mila her dress was the color of hospital food. And wasn’t that the same challenge when someone made a dress out of a bridesmaid-y seafoam green that she said looked like dishwater or something?

But now that she’s put away the vaudeville act it appears she really has something to say. I’m glad.

Anonymous

Great episode! Most enjoyable in a LONG time, IMO.

Did anyone else think it was cute how well Michael and Mondo seem to do together? I remember the tiff they had in their season after which they became friends, and it seems they still like to get one another’s opinions in the workroom.

I would’ve been happy with either Austin or Michael winning. I actually gasped the first time Michael held up the collar treatment because it was so dramatic. Although from reading downthread it looks like it’s a McQueen ripoff?
I though Gordana should have been top 3 over Anthony, though. Bottom 3 was about right, although I can’t wait to see the dresses again LOL.

Austin should have won and so I’m happy with that but was disappointed that Kenly didn’t make it into the top 3. She’s back to her 40/50’s aesthetic which is what I love her for. The pink cotton-candy-polka-dot confection was really beautiful. Mondo let me down a little this week. It was definitely innovative, borrowing elements for all different styles including the obi above the train but I can see why the judges just placed him “safe”. I don’t know how well the dress would have gone over at the Met.

Oh Sweet Pea. I adore her as a person (from what little we get to know of designers during these shows) but her clothes are so off-the-wall-hippie. That dress was kind of tragic. I’ll miss you but you did deserve to go last night.

Ha. That’s what I thought initially. But then I realized Rami is in the picture.

Speaking of Joanna, someone mentioned on twitter that she can pass for Tilda Swinton’s sister. I thought that was amusing.

Anonymous

😉

Anonymous

Every time I see her I immediately think Tilda Swinton

Anonymous

Oh my, I said the same thing about Joanna last night – IMO a prettier Tilda

Anonymous

I’d never have picked Austin’s dress for the winner – not even for the top 3. Did not likey at all. I thought Mondo would’ve been the other top 3 (and I’m not one of those who’s always screaming that Mondo was robbed, but in this case I thought he showed a more distinctive point of view than anyone, and a very well-executed, if not perfect, look).

Anonymous

Thank god. I thought I was the only one who didn’t care for Austin’s. In fact, I wasn’t sure Austin was even in the top three when the six were asked to step forward. I will admit, however, that I like it better in the stills than I did last night on television.

Anonymous

Yes, I was confused by his being asked to step forward because I was sure Anthony & Michael were in the top, and Sweet P was in the bottom. I figured Austin’d just be safe.

Me three! The dress itself was okay though I’m not a fan of gold lame (how do you put the little ` over the e?) but I thought the tulle made it look tacky.

Anonymous

So many people think it’s a winner that I figure I must be missing something. But I keep looking back at it and I just don’t see it. Chacun a son opera gown, I guess.

Anonymous

Agreed. It looks like a home-sewn costume for a ’30s period drama. Not terribly new and not extremely well executed. Plus, the heavy gold lame really did not look good with the model’s coloring.

foodycat

Sweet Pea’s dress would work for Glyndebourne. Very practical, she has a built-in picnic rug.

Anonymous

“Tlo said: In addition, Tom thinks the tulle looks unresolved, as they say. Like it was shoved in place at the last second.”

It probably was shoved in there at the last minute, but it is what really finished off the dress so kudos to him for realizing he needed it. Up top, the tulle actually reminds my of those 19th Century, Jane Austeny-type necklines. And he picked the perfect hair & make-up for the dress as well.

Early on in the episode, when everyone kept saying that Austin was their biggest competition, I thought they were giving him the loser edit. Glad to see they weren’t.

As for the lack of screaming drama: I’m glad it’s gone. What’s left are the parts of the show that were interesting in the first place. Michael is really getting on my last nerve though. He’s more annoying now than his first season — and I’m hoping someone goes to his Wikipedia page (if he has one) and adds that he invented red. And mops. That would be perfect. Though maybe that should wait til after next week when they put all the designers on a ferry boat and Michael claims to have discovered New Jersey.

Yes. I would have liked Michael’s dress, but the illusion was ruined by opening his mouth early and often. I hate that they spend any time training the camera on him worrying, fretting, trying to make jokes, and generally just sounding like a Sally Field acceptance speech. I would love him to be schmaufed, if only for some peace and quiet.

Anonymous

In the workroom, Austin described a big tulle overskirt for the bottom of the dress. The way he described it to Coles had me thinking it would be much more dramatic. I think he ran out of time and had to switch to a plan B, hence the “unresolved” tulle.

Anonymous

That could explain the “unresolved” tulle. I did love the way that the light caught the gold lame and it had almost a liquid quality as his model walked the runway.

It was definitely a time issue as his sketch showed a sheer layer as well. But I definitely think he should have won. Lamé is definitely not the easiest material to work with or to make look acceptable, so Yay Austin! I really loved that show with him and Santino, sad it didn’t do well. Anyways, I thought his dress was very Bette Davis at the opera. Alas, poor Sweet P, that dress would have been perfect for a toddler at a wedding.

Anonymous

I agree that Austin understood the venue and the clientele, if you define the venue as the lobby and the clientele as bright young things. I’m not sure anybody understood that operas are viewed sitting down. For long periods of time. Next to other people. And that a lot of the people who go to opening night at the Opera are a long way from their twenties. I might be able to get through an aria or two in Austin’s dress, but Sweet P’s dress needed it’s own box to sit in. Maybe the challenge should have included the notion that the dress had to be wearable once the performance began.

Indeed! And how about Kenley’s? And Mondo’s–generally any kind of train would be a bad idea because it would get stepped on, I would think. I wish they had talked a bit more about what’s involved in attending the opera.

Anonymous

And the ersatz obi would be very uncomfortable while sitting.

generally any kind of train would be a bad idea because it would get stepped on, I would think.

I once went to an opera gala wearing a dress with with no sleeves, very thin straps. Because it got a bit chilly in the house, I slipped on my outer wrap, a vintage kimono, and wore it into the foyer during intermission. Mistake! It did, indeed, keep getting stepped on, until I whisked the hem up over my arm (making it even more difficult than usual to balance the hors d’œuvres and champagne!).

MilaXX

It was nice to see a runway of mostly well made garments last night.Feels like old times. I loved Austin’s dress. Changing his color to black was the best thing to happen to Michael, because in red that dress would have been tacky.
btw, this straight gal thinks Rami is looking hella hot with that scruff.

Interesting comments! e.g. the Korean feel of Sweet Pea’s silhouette. And right on about red carpet vs. attending an event where you have to sit down a lot and also mingle with large crowds–and also, finally, pay attention for long periods to something besides how you look (e.g. are your tits exposed). I am a little disappointed in Austin’s gown in closeup, as it doesn’t seem quite as exquisitely finished as it seemed on the show, but I was amazed at how he and a few others produced something really polished in the limited time. I thought that April, Rami, and even Sweet Pea made mistakes because of the time constraints.

Anonymous

Oh LORT, Sweet Pea’s dress was hiddy! I knew as soon as it stepped on the runway that she would be auf’d. Congrats, Austin! And keep rocking that mustache!

Anonymous

Me too–about Sweet P’s dress. Not so much about Austin’s porny moustache. 🙂

I too was sure Sweet P was a goner, especially given how close she came to being auf’d last week, although I have to say when I got a close up of April’s bodice I lost some of my certainty. That was one scary red piece of patchwork. She’d better bring it next week because now she’s in the position Sweet P was last night – in a close race for last place with another designer, she’ll lose.

And Austin, I just want to shave off that that moustache and (while I’m at it) lop about 3 inches off his bangs.

Anonymous

I was kidding about the mustache…it looks completely porny & totally hideous, lol! And April’s dress was poorly constructed (it looked like the bodice got caught in the door or something…) but at least it wasn’t an assault to the eyeballs like Sweet P’s 🙂

Austin dress was basic. Pretty but very basic. From the way everyone was exclaiming that THIS should be his challenge, I was left completely underwhelmed. And quite honestly, it does not scream ‘opera’ to me. But oh well. Congratulations to him.

My pick for the winner would’ve been Michael. His dress was just absolutely fabulous and gorgeous and glamorous and had drama. Something perfect for the opera. It did have a bit of celebrity-ish to it (thanks to Austin for pointing that out and no, absolutely no, to Issac proclaiming the ever useless Kim Kardashian can be seen wearing it) but I thought it was still appropriate for a night out.

I was surprised to see Anthony in the Top 3. I didn’t get his dress. Didn’t get why the judges fawned over it. My pick to take his spot would’ve been Mondo. His design/dress was creative, interesting and above all beautiful.

New PR drinking game: take a shot every time Kenley reminds the other designers about the time.

Anonymous

I think last season it was decided that producers instruct designers to give out these reminders, and that certain people are chosen to do so is to elicit fake drama. That being said, I’ll happily join you in a drinking game.

Anonymous

Any drinking game that also serves to soften the effect of Kenley’s voice on my ears is totally welcome.

Anonymous

I was okay with Austin winning, and would have been okay with Michael as well, given the top 3, but I feel certain the real winner is somewhere in the middle of the pack. And I’m completely puzzled why this was a one-day challenge.

BTW, for everybody out there missing ScottyF, I did manage to find him on the web, and he’s out there doing his thing as ScottyF, Fierce Black Queen. I let him know he was missed around here, but I’m thinking he’s moved on and probably won’t be back. Such an interesting, talented, and big-hearted guy, it turns out, but we kinda figured that. Shame.

foodycat

THat is a shame. He’s one of my favourite commenters to read! Was it something we said?

Yeah. I would LOVE to know what went down. How did I miss the drama? lolol.

I also googled ‘scotty f fierce black queen’ and found his blog.

Anonymous

Oh, what’s done is done, and I really don’t mean to start stirring the pot. I’m quite sure Scotty wouldn’t want it either. I know he wishes nothing but success for this blog and is an admirer. Maybe ultimately commenting here got his writing juices flowing, and he just wants to do more of it, in a less of a supporting role and more for himself. I hope he finds an audience. I think he’s talented guy.

Anonymous

Why did he leave? I think I missed something.

Anonymous

I don’t know what you guys mean about gold lame. I used to have a gold lame tuxedo jacket, and I thought it was quite subtle. It was straight out of the 80s, had huge shoulder pads and a really fitted cropped waist, and it gave the illusion that I actually had a great body (I think I want it back).

Though I did like Austin’s dress.. I thought it would have been served by an increase in the amount of black tulle, to counterbalance the impact of the lame more effectively. The instant I caught sight of Sweet Pea’s gown in production in the workroom, I knew it was her time to go. It was totally 1960’s junior prom stuff. And the bodice which she claimed to want to get just right, was a total disaster of bad sewing and fitting.

Anonymous

I didn’t mind the flowy tulle so much, but I do think he planned for a more dramatic tulle-skirt effect, based on his comments to Coles in the workroom. I think he ran out of time.

Anonymous

I was wondering if black Organza wouldn’t have been a little better? Something with a little more body of it’s own to hold a little shape. The black tulle looked ‘costumey’ to me.

I actually agree with you. For me it was the volume of the tulle that made it not quite work. And the notion of organza would have been a great direction to go in. It would have looked more polished IMHO

Anonymous

I agree, there was something underwhelming about the volume, but I loved the visual effect of the tulle over the lamé. That was truly beautiful.

I like Austin and his work quite a bit, but I did not like this dress. Lame’ and tulle are choices a home ec. student makes for their prom dress, not at all what I’d expect to see at the opera. I feel like he made some weak choices because he was worried about the time limit. I don’t know. I adore him and I’ve seen some stunning work from him, but this one felt really weak to me, and I was surprised he won over Michael and Anthony.

MilaXX

I hate to say it, but I’m enjoying Joanna much more than the watered down Tim we’ve had the past few seasons.

Anonymous

In general, I agree. But I did NOT like her asking Rami who he thought was his biggest competition. That’s not a mentor question–that’s a reality TV producer question.

MilaXX

true, but I didn’t mind it as much given that this is an All Stars season

Anonymous

Yes! And the new judges vs. those other judges and their cracktastic opinions. But I do miss the old pre-Lifetime Tim.

Anonymous

Austin’s was the best of several worthy contenders. I have to agree that the black tulle looked like an afterthought, but Austin did mention his intent to add it early on to Joanna.

I like Sweet P; she seems to be a nice person, but yea, that dress amply demonstrated that she doesn’t have the chops for this contest. Add some cap sleeves and it’s a Korean wedding dress, add some elastic and it’s maternity. Who would wear that flowered schmatta to any opera?

Michael and the color red; I guess Valentino gave him exclusive rights after he retired.

Anonymous

Why do half the dresses make the models look pregnant. I don’t understand.

Brad and Anne White

From Austin sketch, I am surprised he didn’t use more tulle. It ended up being a little underwhelming, but it was still a gorgeous dress that I wish I had the body to wear. I did love Michael’s dress, but it was a little over the top for my tastes, but there’s something about him that grates my nerves, so it’s hard for me to get on the bandwagon. Loving All Stars and real talent!

Anonymous

Michael offered up a small plate of drama because he’s apparently under the impression that he invented red.

Sheesh, you’re supposed to wear a gown to the Opera?!? I’ve been doing it wrong!

Lynn Landry

I don’t know if it said, “Opera,” but I loved Mondo’s dress.

Anonymous

It seems a lot of the designers thought the dresses were for the Met Costume Ball rather than going to the opera. Overall lots of interesting designs to look at though!

Anonymous

What I’m liking about this show so far is that, whether I agree with the judges’ choice of the winner or not, I never think that the fix is in, or that the judges are smoking crack. It’s so nice to hear actual discussions about the clothes!

My choice for the win was Mondo, but Austin and Michael C. produced beautiful dresses, so it’s hard to argue with Austin’s win. He made a beautiful dress. I think Mondo’s design was too far outside the box/wheelhouse/cliche of your choice for these judges, who make their livings designing gowns.

The bottom three really were the bottom three. Kenley and Rami, who also made hideosities, were lucky! Sweet P’s, however, with that terrible bodice and godawful skirt fabric (70s sheets, indeed!) deserved the auf.

Anonymous

I agree that Rami’s color choice was atrocious, but I’m reserving judgement on the garment until I can see the stills. It looked like very skillful construction in the three nanoseconds it appeared on my TV screen. (Then again, it could have been a bath mat and tape, given how quickly it flashed by.)

Austin’s dress and styling remind me of the robot in Metropolis (in a good way!), but I slightly prefer Michael’s look. And I could easily see Sweet P’s dress in the crowd at a folk festival, but it’s a far cry from opera wear.

Call me Bee

I am not surprized that Austin won, but, as Mila mentioned, his dress was fairly basic. However, it was perfect for this challenge. Sophiscated and adult with an interesting neckline; perfectly executed and styled.
I agree with a post above that Sweet P probably has never been to the opera. While the judges said it was more of a day dress, I think it was just plain ugly. Unflattering waistline, bady made bodice and ugly fabric. I don’t know what she (or Kara) was thinking when she chose a floral print for this challenge.

Anonymous

If they’d picked prettier fabrics and/or richer colors and made better design choices/execution. . . .(I just realized how many qualifications there are…) but meaning with a knock-out fabric while it still would have been a risk – it COULD have paid off?

Anonymous

The second Sweet P’s dress came out, my husband said: Grand Ole Opry!

Yes, he’s watching with me. And I forgot Runway was on, and he remembered!
Is the world coming to an end? Oh right. 2012. Haha.

Austin’s is the prettiest gold lame dress I’ve ever seen. But I too am with Tom on the unresolved issues with the black tulle. I like to imagine that he had stronger plans for it and ran out of time. So glad he won though. Michael’s was beautiful til I saw the slutty backside.

Anonymous

I can’t get past the fact that Austin has styled his model to look a lot like him. That’s just really disconcerting.

Anonymous

You know what I’ve noticed about these judges? It’s that they actually try to be kind in their critiques, so that whiff of crack people smelled is probably just constructive criticism. I think we’re not so used to hearing it anymore from PR judges.

Congratulations, Austin! Well done! I suspect he ran out of time with the tulle since he planned this grand extension of the dress with it in his discussion with Joanna. Nevertheless, well done. In fact, I liked all of the top three and a few in the middle, too.

Anonymous

Yes, it reminds me of Design Star. The judges were always nice and constructive. I attributed that to them being hosts of their own shows and not wanting to put off their audience. You know, they have to be relate-able and the imaginary best friend of the viewer. Of these judges, I see Issac with the most bitchy potential, but maybe not the cruelty like some of the PR judges dabble in. Also, because this crop of designers have already worked in the field, maybe they are being treated more like contemporaries?

Anonymous

I have been really pleasantly surprised with how toned down Isaac M. is this season. I expect the bitchery to soar, but he’s been really awesome (IMHO). Judging by the previews, we’ll be getting some of his fun snark later in the season, but this is great. I’ve said before that I think he may have developed after being the mentor for that other show (whose name I can’t remember for the life of me).

Anonymous

I wasn’t convinced on Austin’s dress at first, but on the runway and now again in the pictures I think it’s really on point. The tulle does look a tiny bit messy (I hope they don’t keep rushing them through 24 hour challenges…) but the overall look + styling does it for me. It pushes all my slightly retro Hollywood class buttons. Love.

Sweet P … I’m sorry to see her go because I really like her, but This is Not Her Show. Let this be the last PR for you. I think April’s dang lucky Mood got in a shipment of Captain Von Trapp’s drapes that morning and Kara’s lucky she picked a less obnoxious color for her obnoxious print.

Logo Girl

Is it just me, or did it seem Mondo was channeling Bethany Van Nuys on a bunch of levels?

This recap really made me appreciate why Austin won over Michael C. I am now convinced that it was the right choice.

Lattis

The brilliant thing about Austin’s dress was the styling.

I have to give him props for using gold lame and black tulle together and not ending up with a halloween costume.

Anonymous

HOW MUCH FUN IS THIS??!! In 24 hours, even the worst designers came up with something better than any of the ‘best’ designers the last 2 seasons for a 2-day challenge. I also love that you cannot predict who is going home by the clips. JoAnna makes me miss the old Tim Gunn who’s opinion actually meant something. The past few seasons the judges are so off their rockers that Tim’s advice is practically worthless. I am loving every minute of this show!

I think Micheal has really improved over what he showed in his first season, though. He’s really polished up a lot of his skills.

Pennymac

I am reminded yet again why I originally loved this show. Austin’s dress was wonderful, but I thought the tulle was to thin, somehow, like it needed more volume or punch? Dunno. Sweat Pea-flower-child-hippy-chick seems so nice and easy going, but she was the obvious choice for the schmauf. I believe my mother had those sheets in her guest bedroom, circa 1976. They were pure poly, scratchy, and pilled and snagged with every washing.

Anonymous

i was holding my breath for a minute thinking austin was not going to win. so glad he did, how can you not love that skinny little queen? 🙂

bethannstamps

PR is back baby!! this is what it is all about, gorge clothes, thought behind the challange. it was for a specific event/venue. i really like Sweet Pea but she had to go, don’t think she works well in the time crunch/pressure. What’s with the stash Austin, i hate it, otherwise you are adorable. dress was perfect for the event. Michael C did great also.. did you see the look on April’s face!

I didn’t like Austin’ dress. The tulle looked cheap and tacked-on to me. And it reminded me a bit of the one dress Michael Costello did for the hat challenge (where he won as well). I would have given the win to Michael in this case.

I was dubious about Austin’s fabric choice, too. It’s very, very easy for lamé to look costumey and cheap. But he pulled it off!

Lattis

Something that made me smile was Austin’s reaction to winning. His speech to the judges was very (endearingly) “I’d like to thank the Academy . . . ” with the newly minted Oscar clutched tightly to his chest.

Anonymous

I also thought it could have been taken as a dig to those OTHER judges. Which of course, considering the lack of quality judging by the regular PR judges, is well deserved!

Scott Hester-Johnson

I’m still a bit unsettled that the designers go to Mood apparently unchaperoned. Who is calling time and and initiating “Thank you, Mood!”?

I also cannot get past Angela Lindvall’s hosting. She is obviously not used to speaking and has the bizarre tic of tucking her chin in when she speaks. And does she ever blink?

Last night with a couple glasses of wine and seeing it in motion I quite liked Austins, though I agree that the tulle looked unresolved (good word for it). Today though, in the stills? it feels a little… not quite costume-y, but like too consciously “night at the opera”.

Anonymous

I was thinking more “opening night at the opera,” which (at least in San Francisco) is when the ladies pull out all the show stoppers.

Anonymous

You used the phrase “old hollywood glamour” earlier on and I think that’s about right.
It is a nice dress and I liked it last night it just feels a out of place to me in these photos.

Anonymous

The real glory of Austin’s dress lies in the way the tulle moves with the lame. Seeing a still makes it look somewhat embalmed, which is unfortunate as it is quite lovely. It really needs the tulle—without it there would simply be a plain, basic gold dress.

Michael’s was more spectacular, but it didn’t have the almost liquid movement of Austin’s.

Anonymous

During the runway I kept thinking that half of these dresses were more red carpet (though very well made and pretty/beautiful red carpet) rather than opera so I’m glad you guys pointed out that there was a difference. It’s just so refreshing to see people with actual talent getting rewarded for that talent (and not because the producers are being puppet masters).

Anonymous

i san francisco, they actually do a red carpet on opening night. the difference is that it’s socialites more than celebrities.

Anonymous

Austin deserved the win. His dress isn’t just “evening” or “ball” it looks specifically designed to wear to the opera. Very well made (yes the tulle is slightly haphazard) , considering the time constraint , quite an achievement
Sweet P made the perfect dress to wear to the Annual Steel Mill Christmas party in ______, Texas. Where the super is served on styrofoam plates and the beer is served in cans.

I’ve had season tickets to the Dallas Opera for many years. Without commenting on the worth of the company, you do see all sorts of things, including bridesmaid dresses and, every once in a while, jeans. So, those 2 dresses wouldn’t turn my head if I see one of them in a few weeks. But, that being said, I thought Mondo’s was really neat–totally appropriate for the venue, but not stodgy. Operas last 3 hours, plus dinner beforehand and, if you can make it, drinks afterwards. I get where they were going, but Austin’s and Michael’s seemed a bit much to me. And Anthony’s would never work on me up top, unless I wanted to give my husband something totally different to focus on the entire time….

Anonymous

sweet pea’s esthetic and pallet have a bit of a southwest feel, so they might work better in texas than in new york. at the san francisco opera opening night, the socialites wear outrageously over the top evening gowns; austin’s and michael’s would fit right in. i can only imagine what they wear to the met.

eta: maybe TLo will review the red carpet on opening night at the met!

Austin’s was beautiful but I GASPED when I saw Michael’s. And I haven’t gasped at anything on PR for years! It was breathtaking and unique. It was my personal favorite but just like last week, I’m cool with the judges decision. So far, they have been spot on.

I LOVE that the show is drama free and it’s just about the clothing. Even Kenley seems nicer! Can we just have All Stars seasons from now on?

Anonymous

Yes, that’s IT. Kenley seems nicer. She keeps saying pro-Joanna Coles comments. Is that self-induced, or producer commanded? It still grinds my gears that she didn’t respect Tim Gunn during s5. I hope she threw a lot of apologies at him.

Anonymous

you got to watch out for kenley. she may talk nice, and then throw a cat at you as soon as your back is turned.

Anonymous

It seems to me that Austin’s while lovely and definitely a top contender, might have earned some comments about the material and what looks like wrinkles through the center of the skirt. The fabric is gold and metallic but does not look like lame which I though they called it.

If Sweet Pea had done a simple sleeveless fitted bodice in the same fabric, she might have saved herself. PLus the top looks better in the workroom. But as nice as she seems I can’t dispute her offing.

Anonymous

The fabric could be the lesser known guimpé, which is metallic thread wrapped around a cotton or silk core. It’s stronger and less slippery than lamé. Without a close inspection they would look the same to most people. Experts would be able to see the difference in the drape (but I’m not an expert.)

Anonymous

i thought you were making a joke there for minute, something about gimpy….guimpe (don’t have the accent mark on my keyboard)= what a funny word. i know there are several types of metallics that are referred to as lame by non-experts. some have a sort of plastic feel, rather unpleasant and cheap looking. i suspect that austin used a lightweight silk lame with a woven interfacing. he could have fused it, but that’s tricky because it’s so easy to get puckers from a too hot iron.

and by the way, how do you know so much about guimpe. i suspect you’re a stealth expert.

Anonymous

I liked Jerrell’s too. I knew they would’t pick it because the silhouette was too risky. It was very much in the spirt of Geoffrey Beene.

Anonymous

I liked the brief moments I saw of Jerell’s, too, although the empire silhouette does kinda scream maternity (or Jane Austin, take your pick). The materials looked interesting.

You know Austin would look smashing at the opera! That is definitely his clientele. A much more conservative group.

Whiff of crack!? Ha! Indeed. I pegged Sweet P as going home the second she chose the fabric. Oh honey, you’ve clearly never been to the opera.

Anonymous

I actually liked Sweet P’s skirt fabric. It was totally inappropriate for a dress for the opera, but it would be pretty for a summer sundress. I also agree about her work. She really has some nice designs, but Reality TV is not her friend. Maybe another form of media would work for her now that she has some name recognition.
I did like Austin’s gown and I’m OK with the win. I knew right from the get-go that he would win this one. This is his area of expertise and the fact that he is the Grand Dame of the show makes him the standard-bearer. Everyone sees him as the one to beat on the show. He needed an early win to confirm his status.

Anonymous

Kenley’s dress made me think of “Minnie and Mickey Go To The Ball” with Goofy bringing up the rear.

“A drama-free episode (mostly) full of interesting, discussable garments at the end, with one or two really stunning ones.Darlings, how in the hell do we recap THAT? We’re so out of practice!”

LOL! Poor T Lo! But I enjoyed the episode so much, that if you did not do much work in the recapping of the non-runway portion, it’d be fine. Everyone can enjoy the show on its own.

Am I the only one missing Tim escorting the designers to Mood and doing the time checks for them? I don’t really like hearing the other designers shout out times, especially Kenley.

Blah on the low group. Sweet Pea should have gone last week, and Kara should have gone this week. I have no doubt that if Elisa was here this week, she would have pulled something off more interesting than Kara’s bay window curtain. Marie Claire really did not have to worry about Elise winning, because there is no way she would be able to do that with some of the other designers there.

I liked Sweet P’s skirt a lot better than everyone else seems to, but the bodice was not good.

Anonymous

I actually liked Kara’s gown a lot ,which had a similar silhouette but was much more expertly executed and had a bodice that “fit” the challenge. Kara’s reminded me of a gown by Giambattist Valli that Samantha Boardman wore to one of the Met’s Costume Institute Balls.

Anonymous

I actually liked Kara’s gown a lot ,which had a similar silhouette but was much more expertly executed and had a bodice that “fit” the challenge. Kara’s reminded me of a gown by Giambattist Valli that Samantha Boardman wore to one of the Met’s Costume Institute Balls.

Anonymous

yes, i drew that parallel too. sweet p’s skirt had a stiff shape and didn’t move on the runway. her model was like one of those ceramic bells that’s made into a lady on top. kara’s skirt had a lovely shape that moved gracefully.

Anonymous

Yes, I was glad Kara was saved. There were a certain 1950’s debutante charm to the dress for me–though she could have used longer ribbons down the back.

Anonymous

It seems Austin’s dress didn’t photograph well. It certainly looked beautiful on the runway and I’m very glad he won. Too bad about Sweet Pea. She does indeed make attractive clothes outside of the PR format — and she’s also really likable. The thing with Costello and red was ridiculous.

Unfortunately I missed the first 40 min of the show last night, so I got to see only the judging…. I’m glad Austin won…. .but I agree with the “unresolveness” of the tule… also the lame was so wrinkly…. I can’t wait to see what the guys have to say about Michael’s dress….
Another comment: at TLo’s FB page, there was a recent post about some PRALLStar sending them a nasty email, but now the post disappeared before I could read the comments…. anybody saw it? what happened??

Yep. Austin’s would have been my choice, too (though I thought Mondo’s was a contender). The fit is beautiful and the juxtaposition of gold lamé and black tulle works quite well. The judges (and their critiques, unlike Nina’s dumb and inarticulate comments, are well-informed) mentioned something about a slight unevenness in the bodice– in the placement of the crisscrossing straps. It’s a minor thing in an otherwise perfectly executed garment.

Sweet P’s is terrible: no sense of proportion, shitty execution, and quite a bit of ballooning going in.

The skirt of Sweet P’s dress reminded me entirely too much like something I could pull off the racks of a local hippie import store. Austin’s dress was really lovely and sophisticated, and it even looked like it would be comfortable. I also loved the modernized version of the 1920’s styling. I know Mondo’s didn’t entirely fit the nature of the challenge, because as it’s been pointed out, it would be almost impossible to sit in comfortably, but I’m looking forward to seeing more photos of it on TLo, because I enjoyed it and want to get a better look at the design details.

marilyn

There is order in the universe!!! The judges are making rational decisions!!!

I was sure they were going to pick Micheal, the way they gassed all over it. But this is better suited to the Met. Peach should have gone home last week for her tower of towels.

Anonymous

For a few minutes I was shocked that Mondo’s was “safe” and not in the top 3, but then I thought about it and realized that he didn’t make a gown when he was specifically told to make one. So yeah.

I love Austin’s gown but I absolutely 110% agree about the tulle.

Anonymous

Loved that Joanna called Michael out for not thinking too much about the women that might wear his dress in real life. I do actually really like the critiques and notes shes given the contestants insofar. His dress screamed Kardashian to me, even the judges mentioned it, and that is not a compliment in my mind. Tits out, back out, bejeweled and feathered for the opera? Not so much. Maybe for a Kardashian hosting a club night in Vegas.

The thing is, though, I think Michael’s dress evoked Kardashian because his model was styled as one. But, honestly, gold fabric with tulle is something Kim would be just as likely to pick (in fact, she picked a dress with a very similar shape for a red carpet event once: http://cdn1.kimkcdn.celebuzz.com/files/2010/08/kim-kardashian-2010-emmys-red-carpet-10-492×846.jpg ). Austin had the benefit of styling his model in a way that suggested art deco/Great Gatsby/etc. However, I’m having a difficult time imagining the dress looking so ‘modest’ with conventional 21st century styling.

Anonymous

Just a quick comment–haven’t seen the show but looking at the Rate the Runway, Kenley’s dress looked like nothing more than a southern belle of the ball. Agree that SweetPea needed to go, perhaps summer garden party dress? Mondo, I assume was right up there next to Austin–I might have had a hard time were I a judge, Michael made a very nice dress for a change. What was with April? Gone from black and white to red running to black?

Sheets from the 70’s. Funny – but that’s exactly what I thought when I saw that material. I actually wore something like that back then….only there was less pouf in the skirt. And I didn’t wear it somewhere formal. It was an evening beach party, as I remember – and I was barefoot. You know the look – California 70’s; long straight hair, minimalist jewelery (skinny gold hoop earrings). Very McMillan & Wife. What was Sweet Pea thinking?

Anonymous

I actually recall some heavyweight fashion designers (YSL maybe) from the 60s or 70s pulling off a look with a print like that, but indeed that was some time ago! I’m on the fence as to whether it’s unrelentingly dreadful or just mildly horrifying.

Perhaps both. And I really like Sweet Pea! She’s so…..sweet. Her design aesthetic just doesn’t lend itself to formal wear of any kind. She reminds me of a costume designer I once worked with. Delightful woman. Very earth mother – if earth mothers were covered in ink, wore rings on their toes and sported blue hair. But her designs – the clothes she made for herself – were strictly 60’s commune wear; long loose dresses, empire waists, funky patterned material. It was personal design made to suit her lifestyle. And they did. Her clothes suited her right down to a ‘T’. Like my friend, Sweet Pea’s designs fill a particular niche. But opera wear they aint.

Anonymous

several of the designers thought a dress for the opera is the same thing as a red carpet dress but it’s not.

Exactly right. As a (~mumblety, mumble~) year opera-goer, including some galas and opening nights, I can say without hesitation that you do not see anywhere near as much skin at the opera as was showing on that runway last night.

Furthermore, not every night at the opera is a gala or an opening night. And not every night at the opera is during the fall/winter. A summery dress would be perfectly appropriate for Glimmerglass or the Santa Fe Opera.

It was “night at the opera, evening gown, fabulous dress, couture.” For almost everyone to interpret that as “ball gown” is not really what the event would call for. Mondo went for cocktail length, and his would have been my favorite to win if not for the huge-ass huge ass bow.

Anonymous

No, none of the top dresses were ball gowns. They were all narrow full-length gowns. Two of the ball gowns were at the bottom. I’d say most of the gowns fit the brief in that you could swank around in full evening dress, but still sit in a chair for three hours–Mondo’s didn’t work that way because of the train and the narrow skirt. You could sit in the ball gowns–Kenley’s, Sweet Pea’s and Kara’s, but they wouldn’t be seen at the Met. At least not in this century.

Gordana’s, Mila’s, Rami’s, etc. all fit the sittable evening gown profile. I think Mondo’s was innovative enough to not be on the bottom, but it didn’t fit the brief. He knew it, too. He knows evening wear is not his area of expertise.

Anonymous

I hated Sweet Pea’s dress and I loved Austin’s so I was thrilled with the results. And I am thrilled at how the focus of this show is on making clothes and not the dramatics of those who make them.

This was the first full ep I watched (Lifetime, you need to thank TLo because it was them not your marketing that pulled me in) and my god that host is insufferable. Did she just recently learn to read? I just can’t with her over the top enunciation.

Anonymous

Poly-blend sheets from the 70s. Yep. My mother had a long floral dress that had a color palette that was very similar to this skirt. It was sweet, but as anyone who survived the 70s knows, it was, outside of Halston and his ilk, a crappy time for evening wear–Gunne Sax and cheesy Lycra/disco stuff. No reason to reference it for the opera if you don’t have to.

Wow, in stills you can tell Austen’s was an overnight dress–looked much better moving. Still, very pretty.

Seriously, though: have any of the designers apart from Austin ever been to the opera?

And I wanted to smack the taste into Isaac’s mouth. All I saw on the runway for the most part was completely disconnected from the challenge. Complete and utter misunderstanding of the clientele. I was appalled.

Anonymous

Agree completely. The schmaufs should get interesting now that the most obvious cannon fodder are gone. Austin was so sweet about his win, and he really did make gold lame look tasteful, which is a master stroke all by itself. The black tulle was a wise way to do that. I thought it was going to be awful when he described it, but he’s got a great eye.

Anonymous

You know, there’s gold lame and then there’s gold lame… this is such a softer shade of gold,(obviously silk) rather than the brassy cheap stuff. It looked so lovely as the model walked down the runway.

Anonymous

He was so sweet about it,as you said. He made a lovely dress AND he is well mannered! The mother in me thought, “what a well brought up young man.” Taste and manners – what is reality TV coming to!

Anonymous

Agree completely. The schmaufs should get interesting now that the most obvious cannon fodder are gone. Austin was so sweet about his win, and he really did make gold lame look tasteful, which is a master stroke all by itself. The black tulle was a wise way to do that. I thought it was going to be awful when he described it, but he’s got a great eye.

Anonymous

So glad Sweet P went home. It’s not that I don’t like her but her designs are consistently ugly and poorly constructed. At least on the show.
How adorable was Austin? He was like a pageant winner. He even had the mini pageant speech.

Anonymous

The thoughtful judging without the catty remarks or “Oh, how awful! She looks like the mother of the bride at a disco WalMart” responses is also very refreshing. I appreciate that the judges recognize that 24 hours is unrealistic for anything more than semi-half-assed. (What is that, quarter-assed?)

Anonymous

Someone hasn’t been to the opera or believes it’s a day-time event…Austin’s dress is better, but not exceptional. Tulle? Not on this dress.

Anonymous

My favorite part of the All-stars show is the commentary, we have the best of the best designer comments. Jerrel is cracking my shit up. Once Michael leaves it will be perfect. His weird self-deprecating, unkind Austin comments and made up drama is totally irritating and boring.

vix eljay

The insecurity can get exhausting, though. At this level, he’s considered one of PRun’s elite. Shouldn’t that give him some sort of confidence about his work? I consider him a more interesting designer than April (mainly because I don’t know his aesthetic) and yet he freaks out over the possibility that he might use the same *color* as another designer. He didn’t worry when he saw Mila picking black, and she’s one to look out for.

(Er, this was supposed to be in response to Vivi N talking about Michael Costello’s insecurity back on page 3. I don’t quite know what the comment system is doing.)

Presumptuous Insect

This was great to watch. What a pleasure seeing all those lovely dresses come down the runway! I had forgotten what it was like to involuntarily shout out “wow!” while watching this show. Hot damn!

Lisa

I know! I haven’t shouted at how gorgeous something is on this show in ages!

Anonymous

I completely agree: the judges got it right (congratulations to the new judging team for that).

Austin’s was, to me, the clear winner. The fact that he managed to create a gold lamé dress that was subtle is a testament to how well he understood the materials and the craft. I am somewhat with Tom about the tulle being unresolved, but it’s a beautiful dress and it fits the brief (which, let’s be honest, has nothing to do with what people actually wear to the opera, but rather the fantasy of the opera – more along the lines of the opera episode of Seinfeld).

And, I certainly don’t mean to be mean, but immediately after the runway show ended my first thought was “If Sweet P doesn’t go home, there is no justice.”

Naturally, of course, seasons of watching PR led me to anticipate that Michael would win and April or Kara would be sent home – but I was pleasantly surprised this time.

Anonymous

that screencap of Austin is PRICELESS

Lisa

Good lordy, was I thrilled that Austin won! I don’t know who had the vapors more – him or me! I think it’s ironic that he was auf’d in his season for creating the wrong gown for the wrong event (more Oscars than Grammys), but for this challenge, he clearly saw better than anyone else in the room, the proper gown for the proper event. Michael’s gown was awesome, but definitely more red carpet than opera.

Poor Sweet P. Such a cool, nice lady, but that dress was ugly. And you know, this is one of those decisions on PR where they make up for a decision from the week before. Last week, I thought Sweet P should have been auf’d, and Elisa given another chance. But this week, I honestly thought April’s dress was worse. But – who has more of a shot of creating something beautiful on this show – April or Sweet P? So yeah, I think even though her dress wasn’t as bad as April’s, how long was she realistically going to last in this bunch? If she wasn’t gone last night, how much longer was she going to last in a pack of people that includes Austin, Mondo, Rami, Kenley (she’s obnoxious, but the girl is talented), Anthony, and Mila? The deck was stacked against the poor woman.

Damien W

I’m still amazed that Jerell survived this week. His Frederick’s of Holyshit shmatteh was way worse than Sweet P’s or April’s. Mariboubs and a skirt just as wide as Sweet P’s, only in a worse fabric, as if that were possible. What the frock?

Anonymous

I think Austin was right for the win, but I really think April should have gone home. Horrible!!! Looked like Elizabeth Bennett after she walked through the mud to see her sick sister. If Sweet Pea has gotten the most second chances of any designer on the show, and I agree with that, April is the most overrated designer ever. Her praises are always sung, but she does black, ugly clothes over and over and over. Enough. She should go soon.

Edited to add: after Coles spoke to Rami, Mila and another designer I can’t remember, I was really struck by how well they understand garment construction. They understood creating form, movement, and fullness. After watching Anya create tents and win for it, this was such an incredible joy to watch really talented, skillful people make something beautiful.

Austin’s dress was amazing..and I have to admit when he said “gold lamé ” I was worried because…gold
lamé but he made a truly beautiful dress. I think too T&L are right when they say that he was one of the only designers who understood the venue they were supposed to be designing for. “Night at the opera” is a bit different from previous evening gown/red carpet challenges.

I was really puzzled by some of the fabric choices. Kara’s and Sweet P’s go without saying (reminded me of old, flowered couches that my big mama used to have lol) but Kenley’s didn’t impress me either (perhaps it was the color…it seemed a bit unsophisticated if that makes any sense. It reminded me of my daughter’s Minnie Mouse doll.) and April’…oh dear what on earth was she thinking? It really did not work on any level.

I wish they’d been given more time, as someone said to call it couture and then say you have 24 hours to complete it is akin to blasphemy lol.

And just to show how little faith I’ve come to have in the producers I was SURE everyone talking about their high expectations of Austin meant he was going to be in the bottom (like he was being set up for failure) and then when I saw April in the bottom I was convinced they’d go for the “shocking” elimination and send her home instead of Sweet P. I’m just shocked that the last two episodes have been more like “old school” PR. Maybe its because the contestants have ACTUAL talent (they can sew-le gasp!) or they’ve been there, done that and are a bit more wise this time around (Kenley especially seems much more toned down) or the producers are just letting the clothes do the talking as opposed to manufacturing unneeded drama (its a bunch of designers in a competitive environment…you don’t NEED to create drama it will come on its own) but these two episodes have been leaps and bounds above last season.

Anonymous

I think there a more than a few female kittens amongst us who also appreciate pictures of Rami and his dreamy smile, and his big, big biceps.

Anonymous

Bye, Sweet P. She was responsible for one of the few, really laugh-out-loud, hit-the-pause-button-because-I-can’t-stop, just-as-hilarious-if-not-more-so-in-re-runs moments I’ve ever had with Project Runway with that jacked up collar in the menswear challenge on her season. That look of total befuddlement on her face — it makes me chuckle just to think about it. Like her, but agree it was time, unfortunately. P.S., my screen name is a total coincidence.

I don’t see flawless when looking at Austin’s dress, especially in the stills.
Although the sweep was graceful, the top in front seems awfully contrived. The
back was the best view, except for the really uneven waist
closing. Michael’s was pretty, but Mondo’s was gorgeous; that he incorporated
the sense of a couple of operas into his design the kind of fillip that sets him
apart. However, I did briefly hallucinate the model holding a parasol and a
little person in turban and tuxedo wrangling the train down the runway.

Anonymous

I didn’t see Austin Scarlett’s season, all I know about him is what I have read here. Two shows in, and I love him. He seems sweet and genuine with that endearing please-like-me quality. Reminds me of my daughter’s best friend whom I adore. Plus he makes good stuff! Finally, someone worth rooting for.

Lisa

Oh, if you *really* want to fall in love with Miss Austin Scarlett, get yourself a copy of Season 1 now! You will be head over heels!

Anonymous

Austin’s dress was beautiful, but it seemed as though the tulle was not attached securely. If the model can’t get down the runway without it slipping out of place there’s no way it would survive the opera. Sweet P’s dress was pretty bad, but April’s was horrible. She looked really surprised that they didn’t send her home.

Anonymous

Austin’s dress would look fabulous against the backdrop of the Metropolitan Opera house lobby, which is all in gold leaf.

Anonymous

She seems lovely – she really does, but i hae never care forher designs and for the love of Gawd – a fifty year old woman can no longer expect other adult people to call her friggin Sweet Pea. The skirt looked like the wet paper towel I used to clean up after the Easter egg dying last Spring or maybe an algae bloom. Kara IS on crack, her mannerisms remind me of every coke fiend I have ever known, and that dress looked like LITERALLY 1980s curtains were taken down from the window and she just stitched the top pleat together to make a waist…so effing ugly.

Did anyone else secretly wish someone would have given their model Groucho glasses,nose and mustache?

Anonymous

On the day of the runway show, once Austin had that outfit on, I found myself compelled to yell “THE GAY GATSBY” every time the camera cut to him. Which was very much in keeping with his dress (seriously, he has hints of finger waves in his hair), and therefore even more delightful.

leilah

I have to take issue with the regional references mentioned here; you really can’t say “East Coast” and “West Coast”, when it comes to defining a regional style — even for a specific type of event. San Francisco is just as distinct from Los Angeles in fashion style, as New York City is from Miami…and the fashions at the San Francisco Opera opening night gala are quite similar — in general — to those of the opening night gala at the New York Met. Jes’ sayin’….

Anonymous

Good for Miss Scarlett and Michael. Nice jobs. But I thought Mondo deserved to win. Gorgeous! Totally unique. Perfect styling. It was the kind of dress that when a woman would walk into the room, every head would turn. Actually, when the model hit the runway my first thought was of Audrey Hepburn’s Eliza walking into the ball in “My Fair Lady,” wearing Cecil Beaton’s masterpiece. So the uber-gifted, uber-cute Mondo wins my top prize.

Other thoughts…Gordana’s dress was very pretty. Poor Sweet P….prom dress meets Miss Atlantic City 1966. As for Rami…purrrr…! There can never be too many pictures of Rami, who is talented and seems like a very good guy.

Anonymous

Mondo’s dress was gorgeous, but not for an opera. Operas require long stretches of sitting… the back, tho gorgeous, would be very uncomfortable. And would get squashed.

Anonymous

Probably just reiterating much of what has been said, but yes, I found myself exclaiming out loud during the runway show and I haven’t done that in YEARS – so it was really fun to watch. Has anyone commented on how great Sweat P looked having lost some weight? And as she said, she has a happy life…As for Mondo, I thought that dress was a stunner, too but am wondering if they are holding off on giving Mondo the win since they are so sure he will win? To keep it dramatic? I dunno…

Anonymous

PR rules once again. Bravo to Austin for a spectacular dress. Elegant, simple and beautiful. The judging so far has been spot on.

Anonymous

Oh, and thanks for the picture of Rami. You are the best!

Anonymous

It’s astounding how much better the judging is on this than it is on Project Runway. When Georgina was talking to April about contrasting fabric choices and when she and Isaac were telling Austin to change the placement of the straps across the bust, I was like, “gasssssp. is this actually helpful criticism? I can’t even recognize it anymore.” The only exception of course is Angela, who is so stiff and unnatural it’s almost unwatchable.

In case anyone missed it, Rami is human. Yeah, I’m not sure I believe it either, but that’s what he says.

Anonymous

I really like Austin’s dress..but something seems wonky in the midriff area. I don’t know if it is an lining problem, or lack of one…something seems very off to me. I still think it deserved the win..or in the top 3. Fantastic show. Sweet Pea…ugh, she seems to be such a sweetheart…I don’t think my ego could stand to keep coming back the way she does. Bless her. It was time.

I personally disliked Austin’s gown because those straps were so uneven. I know they had just one day to complete the challenge, but the dress was sufficiently simple that I thought he should have spent some time to get them even (look at where the meet in the back–they don’t match up). The fact that these uneven, squiggly straps were cutting the model’s torso up didn’t help and the haphazard tulle just made the entire dress look very unfinished. I would have liked the dress if the straps were perfect. I normally wouldn’t get annoyed with such a small detail, but the dress is very art deco, which demands a sort of precision. Art deco is a lot like minimalism in that way: if you don’t have the details perfect, then it winds up looking like a home project.

I didn’t get the modesty compliments, though. Somehow the idea of being modest in a gown that I couldn’t wear any underwear with seems off. It was styled to evoke the modesty of the Downton Abbey era of fine manners and euphemisms, but the dress itself can be horribly ‘look at me’ in the hands of a *gasp* Kardashian.

Anonymous

i really like austin, i wish theyd given him a better model. though she looks much better moving than she does in stills.
i agree w/ both of these decisions. his is glamfabulous, hers is–i hate to say it–the nether half of barbie’s prom dress c1971 topped w/ half of barbie’s swimsuit any time after circa a decade later. she’s reaching into the past but not as homage or in reinterpretation but cos she knows it &, i gather, it’s remained fairly present in her head. not that i can argue w/ that, you know.

Susannah Perry

As soon as Sweet P’s dress walked out I was like… Oh look! Sister wife couture! That’s mean, I know.

Mariah J

Totally agree with win and auf.

Anonymous

Didn’t Sweet Pea make a lovely prom dress for one of the challenges in her season? Something like that dress would have been much more successful than this attempt.